Sun Belt: Louisiana-Monroe

Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks

2015 Results: 2-11 (1-7, 11th in Sun Belt)

Returning Starters: 7 OFF, 2 DEF, 1 SP

2016 Schedule

September

3rd SOUTHERN

10th at Oklahoma

17th at Georgia Southern

October

1st at Auburn

8th IDAHO

15th TEXAS STATE

22nd at New Mexico

29th at Arkansas State

November

5th SOUTH ALABAMA

12th at Georgia State

19th at Appalachian State

December

3rd LOUISIANA

New head coach Matt Viator is making his FBS debut. Viator had been at McNeese State for the past 16 years, nine of which as the head coach. Now, he is given the monumental task of turning around a Louisiana-Monroe program that hasn't been to the post season since 2012. However, the former offensive coordinator will benefit this season from experience returning on the offensive side of the ball.

Sophomore quarterback Garrett Smith returns, and he has plenty of company. Returning at receiver is sophomore Marcus Green who led the team in receptions (63) and senior Ajalen Holley who lead the team in yards (709). Tyler Cain makes the switch from receiver to running back after missing all of last season with a lower body injury. Cain is the best athlete on the team and has explosive, home run capability. The Warhawks return three on the offensive line who have a wealth of experience.

New defensive coordinator Mike Collins will be implementing a 4-2-5 defense, but he won't inherit much from last year. His front six has been decimated as the only two returning starters are both in the secondary. Safety Tre' Hunter is the leading returning tackler, and he is expected to anchor the secondary along with senior cornerback Lenzy Pipkins. A few of the front six have starting experience, but not enough to bat an eye at. The front line will be made up of Tyler Johnson and Howard Houston who are both incoming junior college transfers.

Player to Watch: Garrett Smith

Smith was the starter as a freshman for the Warhawks. Before a season ending injury, he completed 57.4% of his passes for 2,033 yards, and 17 TDs. Give him a full year, and he will be one of the top quarterbacks in the conference as a junior.

If you only watch them once, watch:

9/10 at Oklahoma

The Warhawks should in all likelihood be coming off a win with excitement for a new season. They will be making the trip to Norman to face a Top-10 team in Oklahoma where a lot of people will see them in the spotlight.

What to Expect

This is a very young team despite the numbers returning to the offense. With new coaches, it is expected to be a rebuilding year, and a long one at that. Fear not though. A young quarterback with the skills that Smith possesses is a valuable tool for the future.

Prediction

2-10 (1-7, Sun Belt)

-Dug

@chansm1th